Jason Lyons, the Australian star who became known as Mr Belle Vue speedway, has retired at the age of 41.

He had given notice that next season would be his last by announcing a farewell meeting next August.

But on-going problems with the serious leg injury he suffered last September were among the reasons for his decision to call it a day now.

Lyons, who broke his leg in three places riding for Redcar at Glasgow, will go back into hospital in his home town of Mildura, Victoria, tomorrow for further surgery to have screws in his knee changed.

He would have been fit to resume racing after the operation but has called it a day after considering his overall position.

Lyons, who rode for the Aces between 1992 and 2003, and again in 2005, said: “I’ve had 22 great seasons but I have decided it’s time to stop.

“Life’s expensive these days and so is speedway. The money is not what it what 20 years ago. You can survive on it but you are always fighting the bills.”

He won the Elite League championship with the Aces in 1993, and also with Poole in 2004, before lifting the Knockout Cup when he returned to Belle Vue the following season.

Lyons moved to Birmingham when former Aces owner Tony Mole opened the Midland track and, subject to confirmation, his Farewell meeting will be there on August 23.

Aces fans are reminded there will be a supporters’ meeting at the stadium next Monday, February 6 (7pm).